City parks staff presented three candidate locations July 22 for a proposed city dog park and said the parks and recreation board recommended a Fourth Street site between City Hall and the Fort Bend Herald building because of centrality and walkable access.

Why it matters: Staff estimated the dog park would cost about $80,000 for fencing, ADA sidewalks, water bowls, trash receptacles and benches; additional costs for parking, lighting or security cameras could increase that total. The Parks Board favored a location where nearby residents could walk to the park, while staff noted that other sites lacked public parking and would require a new lot.

Council direction and public input: Council members emphasized the need for parking and asked staff to identify other city‑owned parcels that might be better suited. Councilmember suggestions included considering Seabourn Nature Park (staff said a dog park there would conflict with nature‑preserve goals) and airport property owned by the city. Council also asked staff to evaluate funding sources: park dedication funds (zone‑restricted) and Rosenberg Development Corporation (RDC) funds (available citywide for park improvements). Staff was asked to bring costed parking layouts and to consider the dog park within the upcoming budget process; the item will be revisited as part of budget prioritization.

Operational details: Parks board recommended incorporation of amenities and measures to reduce disease risk (parvo prevention), separate small and large‑dog areas, and requirements such as spaying/neutering and prohibited food/snacks to reduce aggression risks.

Ending: No final site was selected. Council asked staff (Rigo and parks staff) to re‑examine other city properties for suitability, return revised site plans that show parking and drainage, and present funding options during the budget process.